U.S. patent application number 12/189514 was filed with the patent office on 2009-07-09 for mobile radiation therapy.
Invention is credited to Samuel Messinger, Mark Elliot Pomper.
Application Number | 20090175414 12/189514 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40844548 |
Filed Date | 2009-07-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090175414 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Messinger; Samuel ; et
al. |
July 9, 2009 |
MOBILE RADIATION THERAPY
Abstract
A mobile radiation therapy apparatus includes a vehicle cabin
including driving controls for the vehicle cabin. A patient
treatment compartment is rigidly attached to the vehicle cabin. A
high dose rate radiation source configured to emit radiation is
disposed within the patient treatment compartment. A patient
treatment table is disposed within the patient treatment
compartment and in proximity to the radiation source. A radiation
shield is disposed around the patient treatment table, the
radiation shield including a plurality of radiation shield sections
rigidly attached to the patient treatment compartment and
configured to substantially impede the radiation emitted from the
radiation source.
Inventors: |
Messinger; Samuel; (Miami
Beach, FL) ; Pomper; Mark Elliot; (Miami Beach,
FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GREENBERG TRAURIG, LLP
2101 L Street, N.W., Suite 1000
Washington
DC
20037
US
|
Family ID: |
40844548 |
Appl. No.: |
12/189514 |
Filed: |
August 11, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11936189 |
Nov 7, 2007 |
|
|
|
12189514 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
378/65 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61N 5/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
378/65 |
International
Class: |
A61N 5/10 20060101
A61N005/10 |
Claims
1. A mobile radiation treatment apparatus comprising: a radiation
source configured to emit radiation; a patient treatment table
disposed in proximity to the radiation source; an operator control
station; an operator shield assembly disposed between the operator
control station and the radiation source, the operator shield
assembly configured to reduce exposure to a user located at the
operator control station from the radiation emitted from the
radiation source; a plurality of shielding sections configured to
enclose the radiation source, the patient treatment table, the
operator control station, and the operator shield assembly in a
compartment, wherein the compartment is at most approximately 29
feet in length, 9 feet in width, and 8 feet in height, and the
plurality of shielding sections are disposed to substantially
impede the radiation emitted from the radiation source.
2. The mobile radiation treatment apparatus of claim 1, further
comprising two patient area radiation bulkheads configured to
enclose the patient treatment table, wherein each patient treatment
table radiation bulkhead includes a door configured to allow access
to the patient treatment table.
3. The mobile radiation treatment apparatus of claim 1, further
comprising a patient table shield disposed around the patient
treatment table, and configured to impede the radiation emitted
from the radiation source.
4. The mobile radiation treatment apparatus of claim 3, wherein the
shape of patient table shield is substantially similar to an
octagon.
5. The mobile radiation treatment apparatus of claim 3, wherein the
shape of patient table shield is substantially similar to an
oval.
6. The mobile radiation treatment apparatus of claim 3, wherein a
portion of the patient table shield is pivotably connected to the
patient treatment table such that the portion of the patient table
shield can be lowered to allow direct access to the patient
treatment table.
7. The mobile radiation treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the
volume of the compartment is less than 2,088 cubic feet.
8. The mobile radiation treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the
compartment is configured to attach to a flatbed vehicle.
9. The mobile radiation treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein the
compartment is mobile and configured so as to be capable of being
relocated by helicopter to a remote location to attach to a flatbed
truck.
10. The mobile radiation treatment apparatus of claim 1, wherein
the compartment is mobile and configured so as to be capable of
being relocated as is to any location by helicopter.
11. A mobile radiation therapy apparatus comprising: a vehicle
cabin including driving controls for the vehicle; vehicle cabin
equipped with infra red heat sensor device, motion detector and
metal bar across seats to prevent any breach of security all
triggering automatic shut off; a patient treatment compartment
rigidly attached to the vehicle cabin; a radiation source
configured to emit radiation, and disposed within the patient
treatment compartment; a patient treatment table disposed within
the patient treatment compartment and in proximity to the radiation
source; a treatment table radiation shield disposed around the
patient treatment table, and configured to impede the radiation
emitted from the radiation source; a plurality of radiation shield
sections rigidly attached to the patient treatment compartment, and
configured to substantially impede the radiation emitted from the
radiation source.
12. A mobile radiation therapy apparatus comprising: a vehicle
cabin including driving controls for the vehicle cabin; a patient
treatment compartment rigidly attached to the vehicle cabin; a high
dose rate radiation source configured to emit radiation, and
disposed within the patient treatment compartment; a multisided
patient treatment table disposed within the patient treatment
compartment and in proximity to the radiation source; a radiation
shield disposed around the patient treatment table, said radiation
shield including a plurality of radiation shield sections rigidly
attached to the patient treatment compartment, and configured to
substantially impede the radiation emitted from the radiation
source.
13. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 12, wherein
said patient treatment table comprises flanges extending upward to
capture radiation from said high dose rate radiation source.
14. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 12, wherein
said patient treatment table is octagonal.
15. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 12, further
comprising pop outs on sides of the apparatus to secure the
perimeter from pedestrians and pets.
16. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 15, wherein
said pop outs are configured to be waiting areas for technicians
and physicists, and comprise a covering panel and viewing window
with a view of a treatment area.
17. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 12, further
comprising a patient treatment area radiation shielding in the form
of walls that are tapered in thickness according to position from
the centerline of said high dose rate radiation source, said
position being calculated based upon perpendicular rays transverse
to said lead, whereby a savings in weight is accomplished.
18. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 12, further
comprising radiation shielding walls which are tapered in height as
they approach the high dose rate radiation source.
19. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 12, wherein the
apparatus is further configured for non-high-dose-rate therapy.
20. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 19, wherein
said non-high-dose-rate therapy comprises a therapy selected from
the set consisting of: low dose, ytterbium 169, particle therapy,
protons, neutrons, xoft, low frequency vacuum tube cyber knife, or
XRT therapy.
21. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 11, wherein the
radiation source is configured to emit radiation for high-dose
radiation therapy.
22. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 11, wherein the
radiation source is configured to emit radiation to support
variable low dose rate therapy.
23. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 21, further
comprising: a control tether for connecting the patient treatment
compartment to the radiation source, wherein the radiation source
is relocated outside of the patient treatment compartment; a
plurality of portable radiation shields configured to be removed
from the patient treatment compartment and disposed in proximity to
the radiation source; and, a control computer operation center
operably connected to the radiation source and configured to
control the radiation emitted by the radiation source.
24. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 11, further
comprising a wireless connection to the internet.
25. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 11, further
comprising an x-ray imaging system.
26. The mobile radiation therapy apparatus of claim 11, further
comprising a chemotherapy treatment device, wherein the patient
treatment compartment is utilized to provide chemotherapy to a
patient.
27. A method of providing mobile radiation therapy, comprising:
calling, meeting and greeting a patient; taking a lengthy personal
and medical history of said patient; discussing with said patient a
treatment protocol; photographing an area under consideration for
treatment; taking measurements for a lead covering, and custom
fitting and inspecting a finished lead mask covering the afflicted
area; speaking with any relatives and next of kin on a regular
basis to follow up on treatment and be alert for any concerns;
calling and verifying insurance eligibility; conducting follow up
calls to family and patient on a regular basis; performing a
periodic review of a patient file and compliance with protocol;
providing on call services on a 24/7 basis for problems such as
rashes or bleeding; and, using their employees and training
same.
28. A method for providing mobile radiation therapy, comprising:
conducting a house call with a patient; dispatching a mobile x-ray
team to a patient location; performing a technical review of
patient data; creating a mobile radiation therapy plan dispatching
a mobile radiation therapy apparatus to the patient location; and
administering radiation therapy in accordance with the mobile
radiation therapy plan.
29. The method of claim 28, further comprising dispatching the
mobile x-ray team on a periodic basis as part of the mobile
radiation plan.
30. The method of claim 28, wherein the administering radiation
therapy includes high-dose radiation therapy.
31. The method of claim 28, wherein the administering radiation
therapy includes variable low-dose radiation therapy.
32. The method of claim 28, wherein the performing of the technical
review of patient data is completed after each administering of
radiation therapy.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional
application Ser. No. 11/936,189 filed Nov. 7, 2007, the entire
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Radiation Therapy is one of the three primary methods to
cure cancer, the others being surgery and chemotherapy. Radiation
treatment typically requires multiple sessions (often over 20), and
therefore may require a great deal of travel time wherein the
patients must come into a cancer center for treatment.
Additionally, patients are often required to endure prolonged time
periods in waiting rooms at the cancer center for their treatments,
even though these actual treatments are generally quick. This
extensive queuing is most difficult for patients who are sick and
infirm, which comprise a significant proportion of cancer
patients.
[0003] This invention provides patients with a quality of radiation
therapy which is substantially similar to current fixed location
cancer centers, but without the need to travel to the center. The
mobile aspects of the invention provide a quality treatment
experience because fewer appointments are missed and a higher
percentage of completed therapy protocols are accomplished.
Additionally, a commonly seen phenomena of patient procrastination
(i.e. wherein patients do not come to their initial consults, or
even make their appointments) can be reduced. The invention assists
in the treatment of patients who are currently unable (or are able
only with major difficulties) to obtain radiation therapy.
[0004] Previous attempts to provide mobile radiation therapy are
founded in the notion of merely creating satellite stationary
treatment centers. For example, a radiation therapy center such as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,449,746 can be set up in one location
for an entire day, and then relocated to another location for the
next day. Although this approach does create increased access to
care, it fails to address the special needs of very sick and feeble
patients because these patients must find the means to travel to
the satellite center. The consequences of missing radiation therapy
sessions or consultation visits can be life threatening.
OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide an
improved system and method for mobile radiation therapy. In one
embodiment, a mobile radiation therapy apparatus includes a vehicle
cabin including driving controls for the vehicle cabin. A patient
treatment compartment is rigidly attached to the vehicle cabin. A
high dose rate radiation source configured to emit radiation is
disposed within the patient treatment compartment. A patient
treatment table is disposed within the patient treatment
compartment and in proximity to the radiation source.
[0006] A radiation shield is disposed around the patient treatment
table, the radiation shield including a plurality of radiation
shield sections rigidly attached to the patient treatment
compartment and configured to substantially impede the radiation
emitted from the radiation source.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of
the invention will be apparent from the following more particular
description of preferred embodiments as illustrated in the
accompanying drawings, in which reference characters refer to the
same parts throughout the various views. The drawings are not
necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon
illustrating principles of the invention.
[0008] FIG. 1 is a profile, side view of a mobile radiation therapy
apparatus.
[0009] FIG. 2 a partial interior view of a mobile radiation therapy
apparatus.
[0010] FIG. 3 a view of an octagon patient table shield with
optional patient area shielding.
[0011] FIG. 4 a view of an oval shaped patient table shield.
[0012] FIG. 5 a system diagram of detached radiation therapy
configuration.
[0013] FIG. 6 a process flow chart for providing mobile radiation
therapy.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0014] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred
embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are
illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
[0015] Embodiments of the invention provide techniques for
diagnosing and evaluating medical conditions and providing
appropriate treatment at a patient's home residence. A physician
conducts an initial house call with a patient to gather personal
and medical data. A mobile diagnostic x-ray team may be
subsequently dispatched to the patient's home residence. A
technical team reviews patient data to determine the proper therapy
plan. Additional house visits and/or telephone interviews may be
conducted. A mobile radiation therapy apparatus is dispatched to
the patient's home as required by the therapy plan. The mobile
radiation therapy apparatus includes a radiation source and
shielding, and is capable of superficial radiation therapy and/or
High Dose Rate (HDR) implant therapy. For HDR therapy, low dose
particle therapy, protons, neutrons, ytterbium 169, low frequency
vacuum tube (such as xoft, inc), cyber knife or any type of XRT
therapy, the mobile radiation therapy apparatus itself is a
specialized radiation vault which the patient will enter. Therapy
data is stored in the mobile radiation therapy apparatus and
transferred to the technical team for additional analysis. The
technical team adjusts the therapy plan based on the additional
analysis, and the mobile radiation therapy apparatus is dispatched
in accordance with adjusted therapy plan.
[0016] Referring to FIG. 1, a mobile radiation therapy apparatus
(MRTA) 10 comprises a vehicle cabin 12, at least one patient access
door 14, an interface panel 16, radiation shielding sections 18a-e,
a patient treatment compartment 20, and at least one wireless
communication antenna 22. The MRTA 10, including the vehicle cabin
12 and the patient treatment compartment 20, is sufficiently
compact in size to travel within an urban population center to a
patient's parking lot or driveway (e.g. the patient treatment
compartment is approximately 28' in length by 8' in width). The
vehicle cabin 12 includes the driving controls for the MRTA 10 and
is detachable from the patient treatment compartment 20. For
example, the MRTA 10 is designed as a pod which is capable of being
carried on a flatbed vehicle. In one embodiment, the MRTA 10 is
designed as a trailer which is capable of being coupled and
uncoupled from a vehicle. Further, the MRTA 10 is capable of being
air-lifted into an area and operates independent of the vehicle
(e.g., provide radiation therapy when roads have become
inaccessible).
[0017] In one embodiment, such as for use in urban areas where
street and parking space is generally less, the MRTA 10 includes a
combination vehicle cabin 12 and patient treatment compartment 20
that are rigidly connected (e.g., similar to a standard delivery
truck). This rigid connection decreases the overall footprint of
the MRTA 10.
[0018] The patient treatment compartment 20 includes at least one
patient access door 14 to permit access to and egress from the
interior of the patient treatment compartment 20. The patient
access door 14 may include ramps or other lifting devices to
improve access for non-ambulatory patients. The patient treatment
compartment 20 includes a plurality of radiation shielding sections
18a-e (e.g. lead, aluminum, alloys of lead, polymers (such as
acrylic), concrete and fiberglass). The position and number of
radiation shield sections 18a-e is exemplary only and not a
limitation as additional sections of radiation shielding will be
included to meet existing shielding requirements (e.g., federal and
state regulations, ALARA recommendations). Also, the thickness and
location of the radiation shielding sections 18a-e is dependent on
the material used and the configuration of the interior of the
patient treatment compartment 20 (e.g. the location of the
radiation source, the treatment table and interior radiation
shields).
[0019] The whole of the MRTA 10 is considered as a radiation vault
with shielding affixed and disposed on the practicable outer
boundary of the MRTA 10 (e.g., on the body of the MRTA vehicle, and
on a divider behind the driver compartment). For example, as shown
in FIG. 1, a MRTA 10 with dimensions of approximately 29 feet in
length, by 8 feet in width, with an inner height of 6 feet. With a
radiation source located in the center of the MRTA 10, the
thickness of the radiation shielding sections at the front and rear
of the MRTA 10 (i.e., sections 18b,c) is approximately 1.37 inches
of lead. The thickness of the radiation shielding on the sides of
the MRTA 10 (i.e., sections 18a,d) is approximately 0.88 inches of
lead. The thickness of the radiation shielding on the ceiling of
the MRTA 10 (i.e., section 18e) is approximately 1.18 inches of
lead. These values are exemplary only as the number, geometry and
thickness of the sections will be modified based on the radiation
source configuration as well as patient table shielding, and
optional interior shielding, if any.
[0020] The MRTA 10 is capable of generating and receiving power and
communication signals. The interface panel 16 includes connection
ports for power and communication systems. For example, the patient
treatment compartment 20 is capable of receiving power (e.g. 120v,
60 Hz) and communication inputs (e.g. cable television signals,
Internet access) from external sources. The interface panel 16 is
also capable of providing power from generators and batteries
installed within the MRTA 10, and communication signals from
onboard computer systems, in support of detached operations. The
wireless antenna 22 is a component of an onboard computer system
and provides access to the Internet via commercial broadband
signals (e.g. Verizon BroadbandAccess.TM.). The wireless antenna 22
also supports a wireless local area network (e.g. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth,
WIMAX, HomeRF) to support detached operations.
[0021] Regarding FIG. 2, the patient treatment compartment 20
includes a treatment table 26, a radiation source 28, optional
patient area radiation bulkheads 30, 32 with access doors 27, 41,
and operator radiation shielding 34, an operator control station
40, a control power system 42, and a patient entertainment device
44. In general, the patient treatment compartment 20 is configured
to include an interior that is conducive to patient relaxation
(e.g., soft lighting, frosted glass partitions etched with scenes
of local beauty, and a sound system for appropriate music). In one
embodiment, the treatment table 26 is enclosed within optional
patient area radiation bulkheads 30, 32 (e.g. lead, or titanium for
standard radiation protection). The treatment table 26 is also
comprised of radiation shielding material. The optional patient
area radiation bulkheads 30, 32, and the material within the
treatment table 26, are of sufficient density to provide a partial
barrier during High Dose Rate (HDR) implant therapy. For example,
the optional patient area radiation bulkheads 30, 32 is comprised
of 0.46 inches of lead.
[0022] The access doors 27, 41 are composed of radiation shielding
material (e.g. lead or titanium) and are configured to allow
patients and medical personnel to enter the treatment table 26. The
doors 27, 41 include, or are capable of integrating with, patient
transfer systems to assist in moving a patient from a stretcher,
wheelchair, or seat, to the treatment table 26. INSERT BRANDS/TYPES
OF TRANSFER SYSTEMS (IF KNOWN). Further, the treatment table 26 is
configured to rotate the patient to an appropriate position for
therapy.
[0023] The radiation source 28 is configured to provide a dosage
appropriate for a prescribed therapy plan. In general, the
radiation source 28 includes a 192Ir source. For example, if the
therapy plan requires a variable low dose rate, then the MRTA 10
will be configured with a Nucletron microSelect PDR as the
radiation source 28. In another example, if the therapy plan
requires a high dose rate, then the MRTA 10 will be configured with
a Nucletron microSelect HDR.TM. as the radiation source 28. The
invention is not limited to the selection of a single Nucletron
source, nor is it limited to a single supplier of radiation
sources. In another example, the Xoft Axxent.TM. HDR X-ray Source
2.2 and associated Axxent.TM. controller will be used. Further, in
addition to the radiation source 26, the MRTA 10 is configured with
an optional portable X-ray imaging device.
[0024] The disposition of the radiation source 28 in FIG. 2 is
exemplary only and not a limitation as alternative mounting
configurations are also envisioned. For example, the radiation
source 28 is mounted on the ceiling of the MRTA 10 and disposed to
deliver radiation to a patient below. Further, multiple sources are
installed in a single MRTA 10 such as from both a side and an
overhead mount. Portable radiation sources are also included in the
MRTA 10 as bulkhead spares, to be configured prior to a radiation
therapy session. Combinations of sources rigidly fixed within the
MRTA 10, and portable sources which are stored within the MRTA 10
are envisioned. Further, portable sources will be configured to
connect to the interface panel 16 during detached operations.
[0025] The operator control station 40 is disposed behind radiation
shielding 34 and is operable connected to the MRTA 10. For example,
the radiation shielding 34 is approximately 1 inch thick lead, and
is disposed to shield an operator working at the control station
40. In one embodiment, the radiation shielding 34 is divided into 2
sections such that the upper section is comprised of 1 inch thick
lead, and the lower section is comprised of 0.53 inch thick lead.
The reduction in lead for the lower half of the shielding 34 is
based on the influence of the optional patient area bulkhead 30 and
the patient table 26.
[0026] The operator control station 40 comprises networked computer
processors, the computer processors including input and output
devices, and configured to control the MRTA 10 sub-systems (e.g.
doors and interlocks, patient table height and orientation, climate
control, power generation, Internet connectivity) as well as
control the radiation source and store patient therapy data. The
power control system 42 includes power generation and control
equipment capable of providing electrical power to the MRTA 10,
including the radiation source 22 and operator control station 40.
In one embodiment, the power control system 42 receives electrical
power through the interface panel 16 thus reducing the need to
generate power within the MRTA 10.
[0027] The patient entertainment device 44 is disposed within sight
of the patient table 26 and is configured to provide multimedia
content to the patient during therapy.
[0028] Regarding FIG. 3, with further reference to FIG. 2, the
patient treatment compartment 20 in the MRTA 10 includes the
treatment table 26, the radiation source 28, optional patient area
radiation bulkheads 30, 32 with access doors 27, 41, a patient
entertainment device 44, and an octagon patient table shield 60.
The octagon patient table shield 60 is configured around the
patient table 26 and disposed to reduce the amount radiation energy
entering the patient treatment compartment 20. The height and
configuration of the octagon patient table shield 60 is exemplary
only, as the location of type of radiation source will impact the
necessary geometry of the radiation shielding. As known in the art,
post installation adjustments of the radiation shielding (e.g.,
18a-e, 30, 32, 34, and 60) will be required to reduce hot spots
within and beyond the MRTA 10.
[0029] Referring to FIG. 4, with further reference to FIGS. 1-3,
the patient treatment compartment 20 includes a treatment table 26,
the radiation source 28, the patient entertainment device 44, and
an oval patient table shield 62. The patient treatment compartment
20 is enclosed by radiation shield sections 18a-e (n.b., radiation
shield sections 18a,c are not shown in FIG. 4 because of the
perspective of the illustration). The height and angle of the oval
patient table shield 62 are exemplary, and not a limitation as the
configuration will change based on the relative location of the
radiation source 28. In one embodiment, portions of the patient
table shield 62 are on hinges and configured to fold down to
provide direct access to the treatment table 26. The hinged portion
of the patient table 62 is further configured to lock in the
upright position after a patient is placed on the treatment table
26.
[0030] Referring to FIG. 5, with further reference to FIG. 1, a
system diagram of detached radiation therapy 100 is shown. Detached
operation includes the MRTA 10, the communication antenna 22, the
radiation source 26, a control tether 110, a local computer 120, a
wireless network interface 122, a wireless data connection 124, and
portable shielding 130. The MRTA 10 is configured to connect to the
control tether 110 through the interface port 16. The control
tether 100 includes power and data communication portions, and is
configured to connect to the radiation source 26. The local
computer 120 connects to the radiation source 26 and is configured
with corresponding control software for monitoring and controlling
the radiation source 26. The local computer 120 is also configured
to communicate with the MRTA 10 through the control tether 100, or
via wireless network interface 122, and the wireless data
connection 124. The portable shielding 130 is configured to be
removed from the MRTA 10 and moved into a residential space (e.g.,
through standard doors and stairwells). The portable shielding 130
is exemplary and not limiting as other configurations of
transportable shielding are envisioned.
[0031] In operation, the elements within the MRTA 10 such as the
radiation source 16, computer control system 40, and bulkheads 30,
32 can be detached from the MRTA 10 and set-up in the patient's
home. In detached operation 100, the elements of the MRTA are
tethered to the MRTA 10 via a control tether 110, including cables
for power and data communications. The data communication between
the local computer 120 and the MRTA 10 is established via wireless
link 122, 124, 22. The computer control system 40 is capable of
bridging the wireless link 122, 124, 22 to the internet In one
embodiment, power to the radiation source 26 is provided locally
from the patient's residential service. Also, the portable
radiation shielding 130 is configured to collapse to 2.5.times.2.5
feet and expand up to 5.times.7 feet.
[0032] In operation, referring to FIG. 6, with further reference to
FIGS. 2-5, a process 200 for providing mobile radiation therapy
using the MRTA 10 includes the stages shown. The process 200,
however, is exemplary only and not limiting. The process 200 may be
altered, e.g., by having stages added, removed, or rearranged.
[0033] At stage 210, a physician makes a house call in order to
assess a patient. The house call includes general patient
consulting, actual physical tumor measurements, assessments of
normal adjacent dose limiting structures, treatment planning, and
obtaining digital photos, as well as portable x-rays where
necessary. Also, all consent forms are obtained at the initial
consult, including HIPPA forms and any other forms and insurance
information. This initial house call can be more than just
information gathering. For example, it creates a personal bond
between the patient and physician and helps increase patient
commitment to the program and thereby increase chances for
successful treatment.
[0034] At stage 220, the physician takes the information back to a
centralized headquarters area for technical review. A technical
review involves a technical department (e.g. therapists,
dosimetrists, nurses, and physicists), or similar staff to complete
a technical analysis. The technical department processes the
information as needed to plan a therapy. For example, additional
x-rays may be required, in which case a MRTA 10 will be dispatched
to obtain them at stage 230. The technical department also accesses
existing x-rays available via hard films (CT scans, PET scans, MRI
scans, Bone scans, etc.), or via digital mediums such as memory
discs or the internet.
[0035] At stage 240, and based on the technical review at stage
220, additional telephone phone contact with the patient, as well
as additional visits may be required. This individual treatment
helps to ensure that the patient feels a sense of individual
commitment as well as confidence in the treatment program. This
sense of commitment in turn helps improve compliance with the
prescribed therapy. The individual treatment also helps reduce the
frustrations associated with stationary cancer centers, such as the
long queue time patients must endure while simultaneously being
surrounded by sick patients who are often likely complain and
promote a pessimistic outlook.
[0036] At stage 250, a radiation therapy plan is created or
reviewed by the physician. Additional x-rays will be obtained by
dispatching a MRTA 10 to the patient's home residence at stage
260.
[0037] At stage 270, the MRTA 10 is dispatched to the patient's
home residence or other appropriate location. A simulation is
performed on site (i.e., the patient's home residence) by the
physician in the mobile radiation therapy unit. The dispatched MRTA
10 is equipped with the appropriate radiation source 28 to complete
the therapy plan indicate at stage 250 (e.g., low dose rate and
high dose rate sources). The MRTA 10 vehicle is sufficiently
compact in size to travel to the patient's residence to begin
therapy in the patient's parking lot or residential driveway (e.g.
the MRTA 10 compartment is approximately 28' long by 8' wide).
[0038] At stage 280, the patient under goes radiation treatment in
accordance with the prescribed therapy plan as indicated at stage
250.
[0039] Embodiments of the MRTA 10 include pop-out walls located on
the side of the vehicle. The pop-out walls are configured to
decreased radiation leakage. Also a sliding lead lined panel with
treatment viewing window may cover the pop out to create a place
for the technician and physicist to stand during treatment Also, a
possible shielded drape over or on top of the applicator may allow
decreased shielding requirements in the walls. The MRTA 10 is also
configured with interlocks to secure the radiation source 28 when a
potentially unsafe condition exists (e.g., open doors, vehicle
movement, high radiation sensors).
[0040] Another embodiment includes an MRTA 10 configured to provide
chemotherapy including exam tables, seats, and intravenous
apparatus along with standard monitoring equipment and personnel
required during chemotherapy. Other embodiments of the MRTA 10 is
configured to allow mobile surgery simultaneously with
intra-operative radiation therapy, or post-operative radiation
therapy and chemotherapy in a mobile setting.
[0041] Other embodiments are within the scope and spirit of the
invention. For example, due to the nature of software, functions
described above can be implemented using software, hardware,
firmware, hardwiring, or combinations of any of these. Features
implementing functions may also be physically located at various
positions, including being distributed such that portions of
functions are implemented at different physical locations.
[0042] While the invention has been particularly shown and
described with reference to a preferred embodiment thereof, it will
be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in
form and details may be made therein without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention.
* * * * *